Gong Jiahua stopped teasing her, laughing heartily: "Since you all welcome me, I’ll come more often. Remember to tell your master that I’ll be visiting frequently, I’m sure he’ll be happy."

Servant: "..."

Nangong Ruyue knew he was always like this, very casual with the servants as well, so she smiled helplessly.

Gong Jiahua turned: "Ayue, I’m leaving now. I’ll come see you another day."

"Alright."

After seeing Gong Jiahua off, Nangong Ruyue thought of going upstairs to see Xiao Zexin.

Chen Fen supported her to go upstairs; Nangong Ruyue then asked her to step back, not wanting her to follow into the bedroom.

Xiao Zexin was currently leaning against the headboard, holding a book and reading intently.

Nangong Ruyue approached and sat down beside him: "What are you reading?"

Seeing him absorbed in reading, she felt quite pleased.

Xiao Zexin put down the book, his eyes devoid of any emotion.

"How’s the baby?" he asked.

"It’s fine, no problem," Nangong Ruyue didn’t say much, "Do you need me to read to you?"

"No need!" he rasped, stiffly averting his gaze.

Nangong Ruyue finally noticed something was off, "Am I too close to you?"

She thought perhaps their closeness was too much for him to handle.

Holding her belly, she was about to shift when her wrist was suddenly grabbed!

Nangong Ruyue looked up in shock—

Xiao Zexin’s hand gripped her wrist, the force quite strong.

He wanted to be gentler, but he couldn’t control the strength.

He wanted to let go of her, but he couldn’t release her.

At that moment his breathing was rapid, teeth clenched, seemingly trying hard to suppress something.

Nangong Ruyue was very surprised, never expecting him to touch her proactively.

Could it be that he’s going to lash out?

But she didn’t feel scared at all.

Xiao Zexin’s dark eyes stared at her, flashing with various complicated emotions.

He just held her wrist, without proceeding further.

As if giving her enough time to struggle.

But Nangong Ruyue didn’t move, nor did she think of freeing herself.

She asked worriedly: "Are you losing control?"

"..." Xiao Zexin was completely tense, unable to speak.

He’s unable to restrain himself.

But it’s not entirely just that.

He wanted to hold onto her, yet he hoped she would be far away from him, so she’d be safe.

However, having grasped her, he couldn’t let go.

Sweat was already forming on Xiao Zexin’s forehead.

Nangong Ruyue saw this, growing more concerned but dared not disturb him.

Meanwhile, Xiao Zexin’s grip on her wrist grew increasingly heavy.

She didn’t furrow her brow, seemingly oblivious to the pain.

Xiao Zexin suddenly closed his eyes, raising his other hand quickly, and punched his injured thigh hard—

Nangong Ruyue saw this, her expression changed instantly.

Xiao Zexin acted swiftly, punching repeatedly, the pain brought him clarity, and he quickly released her wrist.

"Get out, don’t come near me!" he shouted in anguish, his hand continued pounding his thigh.

The blanket was pushed away, and a spot of fresh blood on his pants caught Nangong Ruyue’s sight.

"Zexin, stop! Stop it now!" By the time she reacted a second late, he had already punched several more times.

His force was heavy, each punch seemed like it was going to cripple his leg.

Nangong Ruyue’s first reaction was to grab his hand.

Xiao Zexin struggled, she used all her strength to subdue him.

"Stop it, don’t hit anymore, stop it for me!"

His body was pressed against the bed by her, and she fell into his arms.